Helen Gourley, Janesville, WI (1934-2014)

Helen Gourley, age 79, of Janesville, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014, at Huntington Place with her family by her side. She was born Nov. 1, 1934, in Bradford Township, Rock County, the daughter of Martin and Annie (Jacobson) Herstad. Helen graduated from Janesville High School in the class of 1952. She married Robert Gourley on Oct. 22, 1955, at First Congregational Church, Janesville. He preceded her in death on Jan. 27, 2009. Helen worked at Prent Corporation for 15 years, then as a receptionist for Gordie Boucher auto dealership for 10 years. She was a member of the Eastside Homemakers Club, and was active in the Roosevelt 4-H Club. She enjoyed flower gardening and continually updating the aesthetics of her home's interior and exterior. She also enjoyed visiting quaint towns throughout Wisconsin, where she loved to spend time exploring antique stores and gift shops.

Helen is survived by her four children: Nancy (Casey) Christofferson of Beloit, Susan Venable, John (Patricia) Gourley and Michelle (Steve) Reichard, all of Janesville; seven grandchildren: Kristin, Sean, Cathryn, Nick, Teddy, Sarah, and Cody; three great-grandchildren: John, Charlie, and Thomas; nieces; nephews; and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; two brothers, Clifford and Arnold Herstad; a sister, Kathryn Pickering; son-in-law, Tom Venable; great-grandson, Grayson; and her beloved cat, "Bootsie".

A Private Family service was held at the ALBRECHT FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATION SERVICES, Milton. Burial was in the Milton Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Beloit Regional Hospice or Mercy Hospital Volunteer Association/Meals on Wheels.

Our family would like to express our sincere gratitude for all the kind personal care given to Helen by the staff of Huntington Place and Beloit Regional Hospice over the past few months. We are truly grateful for their constant and amazing support to our family.